Abstract: The article analyzes the socio-economic factors that determine the development of transnational organized crime in Latin America and the Caribbean. The reasons for the development of this phenomenon in the region can be divided into poor governance, corruption, low level of human development, problems of inequality and social mobility, as well as the geostrategic position of the countries of the region. The article focuses on the comparison of the most and least vulnerable to organized crime countries in Latin America. The author concludes that the most common factors are weak state institutions, high levels of corruption and social inequality, and insufficient effectiveness of anti-money laundering measures. Venezuela, Mexico, Haiti and some other countries in the region are particularly vulnerable. To mitigate the risks, the author proposes a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening institutions, the rule of law, and combating corruption and inequality. The work makes a significant contribution to understanding the causes of the growth of organized crime in Latin America.